In 2025, at least 16 individuals succumbed to malaria, marking the highest death toll in nine years and sparking concerns regarding the nation’s target of zero malaria fatalities by 2027.
Last year saw a total of 10,162 reported cases of malaria, a figure lower than the prior year but still significant as the country aims to eradicate this mosquito-borne illness by 2030.
The spotlight on malaria-related deaths intensified following the passing of Commerce Secretary Mahbubur Rahman due to malaria on a Friday preceding World Malaria Day on April 25.
Although 460 malaria cases were documented in the initial three months of the year, Mahbubur was the sole fatality attributed to the disease, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
Admitted to a private facility in Dhaka on April 13 due to declining blood platelet levels, the 58-year-old official was later diagnosed with malaria, as per a ministry press release.
DGHS officials suggested that Mahbubur might have contracted malaria during a recent visit to an African nation. The directorate plans to conduct an “oral autopsy” to ascertain the circumstances surrounding his demise.
Malaria, a severe illness caused by parasites transmitted through bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, remains a significant public health concern.
DGHS data indicates a total of 10,158 cases reported across 13 districts last year, with an additional four cases noted by the central reporting team, bringing the total to 10,162.
Among these districts, Bandarban recorded the highest number of cases at 5,023, followed by Rangamati with 3,614 cases, Cox’s Bazar with 845 cases, and Khagrachhari with 534 cases.
The four aforementioned districts accounted for 10,016 cases, representing 98.56% of the total reported cases.
Of the 16 deaths reported last year, 11 occurred in Chattogram hospitals, two in Cox’s Bazar medical facilities, and one each in Khagrachhari and Rangamati. An additional fatality was documented by the central team in Dhaka.
Last year’s death toll is the highest since 2016 when 17 deaths were recorded, per DGHS data. Between 2017 and 2024, the number of deaths ranged from six to 14 annually.
A DGHS official highlighted that six deaths were reported from Rohingya camps last year, contributing to a relatively elevated fatality rate.
From January to March, a total of 460 cases were recorded across five districts: Bandarban (214), Rangamari (179), Cox’s Bazar (49), Khagrachari (13), and Chattogram (5).
Officials anticipate a surge in malaria cases during the peak season of May to August.
Halimur Rashid, DGHS director (disease control), expressed confidence in achieving the malaria elimination target, citing the national malaria elimination program’s strategic plan for 2024-2030.
The plan aims to achieve zero indigenous malaria mortality by 2027 and complete malaria elimination by 2030.
While acknowledging progress in reducing malaria cases, former DGHS director general MA Faiz voiced concerns over the challenges in meeting the elimination targets.
The presence of approximately 1.2 million Rohingya individuals in Cox’s Bazar camps poses a significant challenge, as many venture into surrounding hilly areas, risking malaria transmission.
Limited awareness of malaria risks among the Rohingya population delays diagnosis, increasing transmission risks in Teknaf and
